Editor:
In regards to the current discussions involving Swamp Hammock and allowing them to continue development, I believe that this community needs to be reminded of a few key items.
I could probably recite most of the arguments that are both for and against Swamp Hammock, because we have heard them several times now. Many of those against Swamp Hammock are residents of Marguerite Road, as well as family members or friends of those residents.
With all due respect to them, though I understand your concerns, I must remind you, the decision to approve Swamp Hammock is being brought before the Board of County Commissioners not the Board of Marguerite Road.
With that said, the board has an obligation to this county and have the authority to take action on programs to improve the county and the welfare of all of the residents. According to Florida State Statute: Title XI County Organization and Intergovernmental Regulations Chapter 125 County Government 125.045 County economic development powers. - (1) The Legislature finds and declares that this state faces increasing competition from other states and other countries for the location and retention of private enterprises within its borders.
With that said, the board has an obligation to this county and have the authority to take action on programs to improve the county and the welfare of all of the residents. According to Florida State Statute: Title XI County Organization and Intergovernmental Regulations Chapter 125 County Government 125.045 County economic development powers. - (1) The Legislature finds and declares that this state faces increasing competition from other states and other countries for the location and retention of private enterprises within its borders.
Furthermore, the Legislature finds that there is a need to enhance and expand economic activity in the counties of this state by attracting and retaining manufacturing development, business enterprise management, and other activities conducive to economic promotion, in order to provide a stronger, more balanced, and stable economy in the state; to enhance and preserve purchasing power and employment opportunities for the residents of this state; and to improve the welfare and competitive position of the state. The Legislature declares that it is necessary and in the public interest to facilitate the growth and creation of business enterprises in the counties of the state.
Will Swamp Hammock stimulate our local economy? Yes. Will Swamp Hammock produce jobs in Highlands County? Yes. Will Swamp Hammock use local vendors and help local businesses? Yes. Will the events and activities that Swamp Hammock will offer bring in visitors from other towns, counties, and states? Yes.
It seems that this decision should be an easy one. Are the residents of one street in Highlands County going to dictate whether additional revenue will be brought to our county? That doesn't seem right!
I am a taxpayer and have been a resident of Highlands County my entire life. Do I not have a say? Am I not allowed to want more for my county? Is it selfish to want our community's local economy to prosper? I don't think it is.
A question for you Highlands County is, do you want the same? Standing behind Swamp Hammock is standing behind our county and our future.
Charissa Buice
Wednesday, February 13, 2013 - www.newssun.com/ltr-021313-buice